An Almost-April Lust List

BLACK FRYE SLOUCH BOOT
CROPPED TRENCH BY GOLDEN GOOSE
TOLANI LEOPARD PRINT SCARF
NDC MADE BY HAND BROWN BOOTS
ELISANERO SILVER BOOT
TOPSHOP DENIM GILET
AMERICAN APPAREL DOUBLE U-NECK DRESS
GLAM ROCK PYTHON WATCH

Inspired: More Relaxed Looks

I'm always relieved that my career path generally doesn't necessitate 'business casual' as most would define it - or worse. On that note, I'm loving these pieces, all by YFB. That never happens!

All pieces by YOUNG, FABULOUS & BROKE by way of Revolve Clothing.

Above image via Shopbop's Undone Lookbook

Inspiration and an Evening at Trina Turk's

These are some images that have been weighing heavily on my wardrobe choices since I recently pulled from other blogs that inspire me. Unfortunately I don't know their origins.


Tonight I went to a cocktail party at Trina Turk's house to celebrate a new fabric line she's releasing for interiors via Schumacher. Really I think from a marketing point it was a great idea-Trina Turk and in her own home, if that isn't an incentive to appear I don't know what is. In addition, she had models prancing around showing her spring line. Very smart I tell you. It was an interesting event with some good people-watching even if Trina's stuff isn't really my style.

P.S. Trina was wearing an amazing, voluminous red dress with her short, very dark bob haircut complete with bangs. She looked great.

P.P.S. My boyfriend says the outfit at bottom left reminds him of Robin Williams in Mork & Mindy...I still like it.

Tattered Brilliance

Raquel Allegra at Shopflick

Loeffler Randall Fall '09 Shoe-ness

It's hard to see the details of the shoes in this photo from Loeffler Randall's fall '09 lookbook, but I think I love them... And the whole look, really. I expect posts to be slow this week as I'm both moving and interviewing a lot. But I'll do my best!

Spring Lust : Lightening Up

Similarly to my self-proclaimed 'not a pink girl' status, I'm also not a 'heart girl'-but the combination of the various nude shades on the below Marc Jacobs clutch makes it interesting for me. Also, Gaultier's 'Parade of Corsets' perfume has been a long-time love of mine. I've in fact been using it sparingly for so long that it's technically way past its expiration date-but that hasn't stopped me.


Joie Leather Moto Jacket
Vera Wang Moto Chain Necklace
Tom Ford Aviator Sunglasses
Gaultier Parade of Corsets Perfume
Current Elliot Shirt
Dolce Vita Black Bootie
RODARTE 'MARQUEE MOON' COLLABORATION W DEBORAH LIPPMANN POLISH
Louboutin Python Heels
Marc Jacobs Nude Love Story Clutch
Proenza Poncho Bag in Nude
Fendi White Vertebrae Pump
Antonio Palladino Oxidized Alligator Tail Bracelet

Pile 'Em On: Cuff Bracelets

In perusing some of the massive selection at Etsy, I came upon sooo many gorgeous pieces. I'd highly recommend that everyone try the handmade, unique route! www.etsy.com


Bing Bang Mixed Chain Cuff
Erickson Beamon Mirror Cuff
Rachel Leigh Snake Wrap Bow Bracelet
Fendi Cuff
Just Cavalli Cuff
Kara by Kara Ross
Erickson Beamon Purple Beaded Cuff
CC Skye Braided Bangle
Etsy Lace Floral Cuff
Etsy Bronze Flowers Cuff
Etsy Stingray Cuff
Etsy Peacock Cuff
Etsy Beaded Gold Cuff

The Ultimate Mrs. Smith Jacket

This jacket by Mackage creates the most gorgeous, sophisticated but also sexy silhouette. I LOVE the lengthened back panel. Despite a closet full of jackets, I actually don't have a black one-Red, Yellow, a Marc Jacobs camo-ish printed peacoat, I've covered the rest of the bases...this would be the perfect black.

Click Here For Mackage at RevolveClothing.com

Product Sampling

I've heard all kinds of talk about Kate Somerville's line of products, now available at Sephora. I've also been reading about the anti-frizz, Living Proof products developed at MIT, and as the proud but tormented owner of some extremely thick, naturally curly (curls that rarely see the light of day) hair, my imagination is teeming with possibilities. I'll hopefully find the time to hit up Sephora for some product samples this week.

The Alexandra Neel Cleopatra Fringe Sandal Is Seducing Me

These Alexandra Neel shoes are gorgeous-I'd wear them to death. BUT, they're nowhere near worth their $770 price tag. I also took a look in my closet yesterday only to realize that a LOT of my shoes currently hit the ankle at the exact same height. Just like these. On another note, I dread the day that platforms lose momentum and I'm forced to spend endless hours in high heels without them.


Click Here For These Shoes @ Shopbop

In Like With The Shoes At Chloe

I really didn't care for anything at the Chloe fall '09 show, however, there is something to be said for the shoes. The top and bottom pairs would be favorites-I think the middle are a little too reminiscent of JLO in Timberland boots with stilettos. It is NOT okay that my brain just made that association.

*Images from Style.com*

Reptilian Spring Shoes

This post was not intended to be geared toward reptiles, but as I clicked through various collections, pulling out what I liked- I finally stopped to look at my growing assortment, only to realize that virtually 9/10 were snakeskin. Funny how our preferences and tastes can manifest in that way.
As for the below grouping, I'm LOVING the Prada heels worn with the little drawstring booties - such a great idea. I'm officially inspired.


*All images from Style.com*

Chanel Spring '09 Up Close

Sometimes when I don't necessarily love a collection, taking a closer look gives me a whole new level of appreciation. Chanel's spring RTW collection is a great example of that for me.


Click Here To View Full Collection At Style.com

In The Black

My boyfriend recently pointed out that I've been wearing a lot of black-and doing it basically all winter. He also pointed out that I almost never wore it prior to that, and that he misses all the color. Crap. I realize it's basically spring now but I'm oddly still craving black. Maybe it's because every day that I step outside into the Cali sun, only to realize it's deceptively cold out-I feel like an overeager, overly optimistic fool in spring brights. That's not to say I don't simultaneously feel a little foolish in black. I think it may take some seriously warm temperatures to inspire my return to color. In the meantime, some of the delicious darks that are still resonating with me:




1. LNA shredded tee and leggings via Singer22
2. Rebecca Minkoff Stud Devote Bag via Saks
3. Dell'Acqua Ankle Wrap Heels via FarFetch
4. Jeffrey Campbell Patent Lacing Hells via Shopbop
5. Philipp Plein Studded Bag via Electic Couture
6. Ted Rossi Python Cuff via Singer22
7. Ted Rossi Python Cuff via Singer22
8. Fenton Mixed Necklace via Saks
9. Philipp Plein Scorpion Clutch via Electric Couture

Shoe Bliss

Funnily enough, I've been fashion-obsessed for years but was never a shoe person - it was always just about clothes for me... until a year ago. I was at a lookbook shoot in which we were using these black Miu Miu teacup shoes, and I could NOT stop salivating over them. It wasn't even until I saw them on the model's feet that I was truly starstruck. I still adore them although they're on the frou-frou side for my day-to-day taste. Nonetheless, I've been a shoe fanatic ever since.


As we all know, I follow Shopbop.com like it's my job. That said, they've had a dry spell - nothing overly exciting for weeks now. Until these shoes. Big sigh of relief. The Omelle Ribbon Sandals at top right are the clear favorite for me, followed by the snakeskin Loeffler Randall strappy shoes.



Click here to shop the above shoes!

The Highly Anticipated Isabel Marant, Fall '09

The funny thing about this collection is that there's not really a specific piece that I'm just DYING to own, it's that I want to achieve the looks. The favorites for me are the top, left-most and middle looks. I also love the floral skirt-and I'm picky about my florals. The shape of the leopard print skirt at bottom right is also fabulous. As always, I love her boots (however simple in this case) and studded booties.


*Images from style.com*

Wanting: Brightly Colored Cage Heels A'la Fergie

If anyone knows the designer, please clue me in - I don't recognize them!

Designer Spotlight: Jen Kao

Funnily, I'd seen a photo from what's regarded as Jen Kao's spring '09 breakout collection and saved it to my inspiration folder months ago, never noting her name. Now, I've stumbled upon her again and damn does she make some great stuff. The prices are painful, and considering her competition at that price point I'm not sure that I'd opt for her pieces over theirs...but, regardless-behold the vision. This is some beautiful and inspiring work. P.S. I'd love to hear what everyone thinks of that black linen halter, I'd designed some things along the same lines and currently have pattern makers at work. Obviously once they're ready to go, you'll hear about it here :)

Click here to view or purchase the below pieces & more!

*Images from http://forwardforward.com*
I LOVE this hoodie:

*Image from http://racked.com*

Inspired: Spring '09 on the Cheap- Isabel Marant Boots

These unbelievably priced boots might be the closest thing I'll ever find to those Isabel Marant boots that've been haunting me. Wooden heel, check...Slouchy suede-could've been a little sloppier, but beggars can't be choosers...Slightly rounder toe than desired-I can live with that! Unfortunately (big unfortunately), the black is sold out. The problem will become matching suede to the boot color so I can string it through the ankle chains I'll be DIYing...I'm up for it.
For anyone else interested, click the image to click through to Victoria's Secret to purchase:
Colin Stuart Kidsuede Scrunch Boot - $119



One of my best friends is officially now on spring break from law school and flying into LA to visit me tomorrow-I'll do my best to keep up posts. She leaves on Monday and I'll surely have lots to share at that time-and hopefully some great pictures. She's got an insane list of things for us to do while she's here...drag queen bingo, a trip to the tattoo parlor (most likely only for her as I'm still on the fence about what I want to get next), a burlesque show-the list goes on. I'm expecting exhaustion but an insane amount of fun. Happy weekend!

Business As Usual At Balmain

Basically everything I could have expected, plus the amazing voluminous pants- Balmain's collection will without question be a popular one come fall. As much as my boyfriend would hate them, and maybe they aren't best suited for me, I LOVE those pants.

*Images from style.com*

News From The Home Front: The Perfect Sleep

My boyfriend acted in an independent movie that then got picked up for theatrical release on Friday, March 13th. We're phenomenally excited over here-the trailer looks incredible. If you're into film noir, definitely check it out! It opens in LA, then NY, Chicago and some other major cities.

p.s. I'm working on this disastrous layout-hopefully I'll have figured out this HTML crap soon. I thought I had it down after all of my Myspace layout work a few years ago, but this feels like a whole different monster.

Spring Shopping Inspiration

Last weekend I went shopping - admittedly the first time I've shopped anywhere other than online in a few months now. Unfortunately, I've been so caught up and excited about next fall that NOTHING on shelves was appealing to me. Time for a refresher course in 'what's covetable for spring/summer'. Aside from DVF's show-which needs a bit of an edge to work for me, I was having a hard time remembering. So, I've researched and displayed my findings in the hopes that the next time I sift through boutique shelves, more will jump out at me.
I'm thinking the general goal will be de-sweetening otherwise sweet dresses & tunics with bulky and edgy belts, footwear and accessories. The insane LA Summer heat isn't exactly conducive to anything overly fitted or structured so light and airy is basically a must. Also loving suede and neutral colors, although a few months ago I did go on a vibrant pink rampage and therefore have some DVF-ish neon/fuchsia/pink floral dresses that'll get some
circulation...with black leather studded belts ofcourse.
*You can speed the progression of the slideshow with the arrows at the bottom right if you hover over the show itself*


*All Images originated at Style.com and Coutorture.com for the Isabel Marant pieces.

Blumarine Goes Delectably Saccharine

Mood: "Recession? What recession?"

Honestly, while this collection isn't really my style and would've been more befitting of my former life in Miami, I love it for being so insanely upbeat in a season of collections that've otherwise tended toward dark. Looking over these pieces I cannot help but envision myself in them and grin hugely at the picture that comes to mind. Maybe that's the residual 6 year old in me, psyched up about the dress-up chest and Mom's makeup. These pieces really are pretty show-stopping though. They also showed a pair of skinny jeans featuring what appeared to be a rhinestone snake coiling up the leg (quite Cavalli) that may inspire some DIY ideas involving studs and all of the skinny jeans I've abandoned (inspired, meaning no snake-semblances involved).


*Images from Coutorture.com*
Click Here For Full Collection

A Lot to Love at Fendi

I really loved Fendi's interpretation of the tough, leather-accented looks that've been so pervasive on the runways of late. That seemingly croc jacket is insanely gorgeous and I'm loving the detail of the thin buckled strap over the top of the foot on those delicious shoes.

*Images at style.com*

Versace

While as a whole I really didn't care for Versace's newest collection, there were a few noteworthy pieces-particularly that navy blue dress. The need to post the image of that one dress was actually the only reason I bothered plugging through the rest of the collection for some other post-worthy pieces. Maybe I'm just a sucker for navy blue-a fact that I already know, but I really think the dress is insanely beautiful. The rest of the collection-eh, I think they touched on trends that other collections did much better...particularly the darker pieces (not shown). Click Here For Full Versace Collection


*Images at style.com*

The Darker Side of Cavalli

I'm completely loving Cavalli's newly edgy fall 09 RTW collection. The combinations of textures have me completely sold. This collection also confirms for me my growing obsession with suede as opposed to patent leathers. I must admit I'll also be happy to see studs persevere in fashion for a while-I'm definitely not anywhere near over them.


*Images at style.com*

Creative Legwear

Imspired by Erin Featherston's collection, I skipped on over to Agent Provocateur because I remembered having seen some thigh highs with striped tops somewhere. Sure enough, they had them-but only for sale in white, and what I'd call 'Santa Red'- not cute. Unfortunately, they show the below jewel tone versions in editorial photos only...hopefully to be for sale eventually?



I also checked out Luxe Legwear and they had some cute options as well, but nothing I'm lusting after as much as the aforementioned brights - although the footless ones are cool.




**EXCITING UPDATE ON THE CHAINMAIL PROJECT!!
I submit an Alchemy request to Jessica at RedPanda's Etsy store and she is going to make me a replica of the Tallulah Morton piece. Psyched!
Click Here For The Red Panda Etsy Store

DIY Chainmail Projects

After some internet scrounging, I came across The Ring Lord. They carry not only finished chainmail garments and jewelry but also unhitched rings and sheets of chainmail 'fabric'. The below tank top could be really cool if styled appropriately, and I'm seriously considering buying one of their jewelry kits. They even depicted a similar piece to Tallulah's although I greatly prefer hers to theirs.




Click Here For The Ring Lord Website

If anyone makes anything cool I'd love to see the end product!

For the Love of Chainmail

I've been semi-obsessing over the chainmail cuff-ring thing going on in this Tallulah Morton photoshoot. I'm also thinking a similar piece would be cool in a leather glove-like form, or even a thin black rubber.

I saved this photo to my inspiration folder so I don't know the origin but if anyone recognizes it please clue me in!